If a surgical stent fits the gums but an immediate denture does not, what is the appropriate action?

The appropriate action in this scenario is to relieve the denture until it seats properly. When a surgical stent fits well but an immediate denture does not, it indicates that there may be a discrepancy in the fit due to changes in the underlying tissue, such as swelling or healing following surgery.

Relieving the denture means making adjustments to the areas where it is overly tight or where it is not seating properly, thus allowing it to fit without causing discomfort or compromising the healing tissues. This approach ensures that the denture can be comfortably worn while accommodating the dynamic changes in the oral environment.

In contrast, leaving the denture as is could lead to irritation or additional issues for the patient. Replacing the denture may not be necessary at this stage, particularly if minor adjustments can resolve the fit. Adjusting the gums is not feasible since the dental professional cannot alter the healing tissue itself; they can only adjust the prosthetic to better match the current state of the gums.